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Flat design is a logical response to the rise of mobile computing—smaller screens call for simpler designs. In fact, Apple recently updated the iPhone interface to a significantly flatter design. Before, the iPhone interface consisted of skeuomorphic design—drop shadows, gradients and artificial textures were used to give graphics a three-dimensional look. In the software upgrade, these embellishments were stripped out, resulting in a more minimalistic user interface. Check out Mashable's side-by-side comparison of iPhone iOS 6 vs. iOS 7.

Flat Design Characteristics:

Two dimensional appearance

Overall minimalistic look

Heavy whitespace

No embellishments – no drop shadows, no embossed effects, no gradients, etc.

Crisp, clean lines—no feathered edges

Simple shapes

A lot of icons

Bold use of color

Increased use of simple typefaces

Minimal use of elaborate typefaces

Sometimes, designers will combine flat design with skeuomorphic design—a trend that is called “almost flat design.” A popular "almost flat design" technique is to add subtle embellishments (like textures or gradients) to flat icons.

Flat design is a beautiful and simplistic way to breathe new life into your website. It’s also the key to creating a modern, up-to-date look. If you redesign your website this year, you should absolutely incorporate some level of flat design.

To truly understand the effect flat design can have on a website visitor, you have to see it for yourself. So take a look at these stunning examples of flat web design.